Licensed Hospice Social Worker

**JOB DESCRIPTION SUMMARY** The MSW is responsible for the implementation of standards of care for medical social work services provided to hospice patients and their families. Medical Social Workers are core members of the Interdisciplinary Group and provide psychosocial support to the patient/family unit based on the initial and ongoing assessment of needs and identified goals, interventions and services indicated. Services are provided in accordance with the established plan of care and utilize professional training and judgment in monitoring the psychosocial process. **ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS/RESPONSIBILITIES** 1\. Assesses the psychosocial status of patients and families/caregivers related to the patient's terminal illness and environment and communicates findings to the registered nurse and other members of the interdisciplinary group. Provides an assessment in the patient's identified residence and assistance when this is not safe and another plan is required. 2\. Carries out social evaluations, including family dynamics, caregiver abilities, communication patterns, high\-risks for suicide, neglect or abuse and plans intervention based on evaluation findings. Counsels patient and family/caregivers as needed in relationship to stress, and other identified coping difficulties. Provides crisis intervention when necessary. 3\. Assesses for, and educates interdisciplinary group, on any special needs related to the culture of the patient and family. Includes communication, role of family, space, and any special traditions or taboos. 4\. Educates patients and families on, and assists in, preparation of advanced directives. 5\. Participates in the development of the individualized plan of care, involving the patient and family, and attends regularly scheduled interdisciplinary group meetings, assisting the team in recognizing the effects of the psychosocial stresses on the symptoms of the terminal illness. 6\. Assists physician and other team m